Welcome to the Achilles Project Home Page

The Achilles Project was designed by a college-wide task force formed by Vice President Jack Ostling and Associate Vice President Carol Farber, and chaired by Psychology Professor Wendy Eisner. Professor Eisner was the first coordinator (2006-10) and was succeeded by Reading Professor Valerie Lagakis.

The program addresses the educational needs of twice-exceptional students (high potential with learning challenges).   It uses strength-based instruction and provides supports in students’ weakness areas.   Interventions include: differentiated instruction; faculty teaming; faculty training; individualized supplemental instruction, personal counseling, academic, transfer, and career advisement; and group work for social-emotional growth. 

Students with histories of failure and withdrawal are excelling at Nassau Community College and transfer institutions. NOTE: Many have done reverse transfer from prestigious four-year colleges/universities (no interventions in place); Achilles is there to show them that there is light at the end of the tunnel.